People who are trying to get more omega-3 fatty acids are told to eat more fish or to take a fish oil supplement. However, vegetarians and vegans need other options. Fortunately, there are also plant-based foods that are high in these essential fatty acids. The following are eight of the best vegan omega 3 sources.
1. Flax Seeds — This highly nutritious food is an extremely good source of ALA omega-3s. Flax seeds, which have a grainy flavor, can be sprinkled on almost anything. You can also find flaxseed oil supplements, which contain even more concentrated amounts of omega-3s.
2. Walnuts — This tasty nut is another of the best vegetarian omega 3 sources. You can consume walnuts on their own, with other nutritious nuts or use them in cooking. Studies have found that regularly consuming walnuts can help to lower blood pressure and even help people lose weight.
3. Perilla Seeds and Oil — Perilla is a vegetable with a nutty taste often used in Korean cooking. Perilla oil can be used for cooking or consumed as a supplement. The seeds are used in cooking or can be sprinkled on other dishes. Studies show that perilla oil increases levels of ALA, EPA and DHA omega-2s when taken consistently.
4. Algae — Eating algae or consuming an algae omega 3 supplement is one of the best ways to get the type of omega-3s found in fish. Algae is one of the few vegan omega 3 EPA DHA supplement choices. Algae and seaweed are also good sources of many other essential vitamins and minerals. Nori is a popular Japanese food that’s often found in sushi dishes. Other foods in this category include kelp, chlorella and spirulina. Algal oil is another healthy algae-derived product that is a good source of omega-3s.
5. Soy– Soybeans are consumed in many ways, such as whole soybeans, soybean oil, tofu and various fermented products such as tempeh and edamame. Soy is especially high in omega-6 fatty acids. Fermented foods are especially healthful and rich in omega-3s. Edamame has been shown effective at lowering cholesterol and shows promise in preventing certain cancers.
6. Hemp Seeds — Although hemp seeds come from the cannabis plant that also produces marijuana, they are non-psychoactive and legal to buy and sell. Hemp is a highly nutritious source of vegetable protein as well as omega-3s. As with other seeds, they can be sprinkled into salads, yogurt and various dishes. You can also find hemp seed oil as a supplement.
7. Chia Seeds — In addition to the omega 3 fatty acids in chia seeds, they are a great source of fiber, protein, calcium and omega-3s. They are used in jams and puddings as well as salads, protein shakes and many other foods.
8. Brussels Sprouts — These cruciferous vegetables, related to cabbage and cauliflower, are rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have linked regular consumption of Brussels sprouts with a lowered risk for heart disease.
Why Sell Vegetarian Omega-3 Supplements?
You can increase your intake of omega-3s by consuming more healthy foods such as the ones listed above. However, many people find it more convenient to find a supplement so they can know they are getting enough of these essential fatty acids. Sellers of health supplements should be aware of their customers’ needs and carry products that cater to fish and meat eaters as well as vegetarians and vegans who are seeking a plant based omega 3 supplement.
NutraPak USA provides a variety of quality sources of omega-3, including vegetarian options. The ingredients we offer include algal oil, which is a great algae omega 3 supplement, chia seed oil, flaxseed oil, hemp oil and more. We also offer omega-3 supplements for non-vegetarians such as cod liver oil, wild salmon oil and tuna oil. We offer private label services so you can market these items under your own brand. We can guide you with every aspect of the process, including production, warehousing, packaging, and selling your products on Amazon.